Why an RV Inspection Before Buying Matters
An RV inspection before buying is one of the most important steps a buyer can take, yet many shoppers skip it due to excitement or pressure from the sales process. Mike performs inspections across Washington and Oregon and has seen firsthand how a professional inspection protects buyers from costly surprises.
He believes that an inspection is not about ruining the excitement. It is about giving buyers clarity so they can make smart decisions before signing paperwork.
How Mike Became an RV Inspector
Mike spent over thirty years working in accounting before deciding he wanted a change. His entry into RV inspections began during a camping trip when he noticed an NRVTA bumper sticker on another camper. After speaking with the owner, he learned they were professional inspectors.
That conversation led to a bigger discussion with his brother, who decided to pursue technician training. Mike chose to take the inspector course instead. This allowed him to build a career around helping RV buyers while still enjoying the RV lifestyle.
Today he travels up to two hours to perform inspections and serves a wide geographic area because demand for professional inspections continues to grow.
The Difference Between a Dealership PDI and a Real Inspection
One of the most common questions Mike hears is about the difference between a dealership PDI and a professional inspection. His answer is simple. He only offers a premier level inspection that includes roughly five hundred points of evaluation.
He inspects the roof, exterior, chassis, electrical systems, plumbing, appliances, and interior components in detail. The goal is not just to confirm that something turns on. The goal is to verify that everything functions correctly and safely.
Mike explains that many PDIs are simple checklists. Water turns on. Appliance powers up. Slide moves. That does not mean systems are wired correctly or operating properly.
He shares an experience from his own RV purchase. During the walkthrough, he asked the dealership representative about a switch on the water heater. The representative did not know what it controlled. Mike explained that it activated the electric heating element. That moment revealed the knowledge gap buyers often depend on when they rely solely on dealership processes.
Why Independent Inspections Matter
Mike explains that dealerships often assign newer technicians to perform PDIs while their most experienced technicians focus on high value repair work. This means important details can be missed.
Buyers also express discomfort trusting an inspection performed by the same party selling the RV. That is why independent inspections exist. A certified inspector works only for the buyer and provides unbiased findings.
This is where the role of a certified inspector becomes essential. The goal is protection and clarity, not sales.
Common Problems Found on New RVs
Mike sees very different issues between new and used RVs. On new units, electrical problems are among the most common findings.
He often encounters miswired lithium systems, solar packages that do not function, and inverters that are not operating. He describes inspecting a brand new toy hauler where the entire electrical system failed due to wiring errors. These issues were not related to batteries being switched off. They were installation failures.
He also finds touchscreen systems and control panels that malfunction on higher end motorhomes. Slide issues also appear frequently on new units, especially when slides are not properly aligned.
Common Problems Found on Used RVs
Used RV inspections present a different set of risks. One of the first topics Mike addresses with buyers is tire age. Buyers often focus on tread depth but overlook age. A unit from 2018 may still be riding on tires from 2017. These tires may look good but are often no longer safe.
He also emphasizes maintenance history. Roof care is critical. When a roof has not been cleaned or maintained, water intrusion becomes likely. Ceiling damage and ongoing moisture problems often follow.
Mike encourages buyers to ask sellers what maintenance has been performed. A lack of records is often a warning sign.
Why Emotions Can Work Against Buyers
Mike notices that many buyers become emotionally attached to a specific unit. Even when inspections reveal real issues, some buyers continue with the purchase because they feel the deal is too good to pass up.
He encourages buyers to slow down, allow the inspection process to work, and then make decisions based on information rather than excitement. In some cases, buyers call him days after purchase to report new issues that were already documented in the inspection.
The inspection is designed to protect the buyer. Ignoring the findings removes that protection.
How Inspection Reports Protect Buyers
Mike uses detailed reporting software that produces comprehensive reports with hundreds of pages of documentation. These reports include photos, categorized findings, and detailed notes. More importantly, they allow clients to generate a structured repair request list.
Buyers can provide this list to the dealership to request repairs before finalizing the purchase. This gives them leverage and clarity. Even when repairs are not completed, the list helps buyers understand exactly what they will need to address after purchase.
This level of documentation is one of the strongest tools buyers can have during the purchase process.
Why Professional Inspections Matter for RV Buyers
Mike’s experience reinforces a simple truth. A thorough RV inspection is not optional for buyers who want protection. It provides clarity, realistic expectations, and documentation that supports better decisions.
For buyers seeking protection, working with a professional through NRVIA offers access to trained inspectors who follow consistent standards. That matters when making one of the largest purchases many RV owners will ever make.
Ready to schedule your RV inspection with South Paw? Visit southpawrvinspections.com or call (360) 839-3306 to book your appointment.